Goodhill

For a dramatic site commanding expansive views from a hilltop in Marin County, the clients assembled a tried-and-true team for this ground-up build. Kasten Builders had worked with Steve Wisenbaker Architects on a previous build for this same couple, so the project was defined by a strong sense of camaraderie, alignment of goals, and proven collaboration styles from the start.

Wisenbaker’s design called for replacing an existing house with a south-facing modern home of two primary volumes of glass and dark stained wood siding. Both of the main masses have shed roofs angled up to emphasize the views, one facing south toward San Francisco, the other looking south and west toward Phoenix Lake and Mount Tamalpais. A low third volume angled back toward the driveway houses the garage.

The central structure containing the entry is double height, its glass pivot door and clerestory windows creating a lantern effect at night. Inside, the space is dominated by a floating staircase whose thick oak treads ascend a structural steel stringer to the bedrooms above. Oak floors, hemlock soffits and white drywall create a light, bright interior. Of particular interest is the second-story primary bedroom suite, which enjoys a private balcony carved out of the main volume of the house.

The project included a pool, detached poolhouse/guest house and a detached gym. In addition, we poured the foundation for a prefab work studio that the client, a landscape designer and contractor, erected herself. Systems include Loewen windows and doors, photovoltaic solar panels on the roof for the house and pool, and, in the event of fire, a high-pressure pump and firehose. In collaboration with Erin Werner Design, the extensive outdoor program — pool hardscape, retaining walls, a patio with built-in firepit, and a deck with glass railings — takes full advantage of views encompassing Phoenix Lake and Marin County’s vast expanses of parks and protected lands.